What a weekend! The sun showed up in style, blessing us with a warm hint of early autumn perfect conditions for some unforgettable events across the county. One of the standouts? Hitchin’s Soapbox Derby, complete with thrills, spills, and yes... a flying shoe (more on that in the news below).

There’s so much happening across Hertfordshire from lively races to scenic trails and as always, we’ve got it all right here. Let’s dive in.

Historical Highlight:
On this day 22nd September, 1735, Robert Walpole became the first prime minister to move into 10 Downing Street, a tradition that continues today. In 1955, the commercial television era in the UK began with the first ITV broadcast, ending the BBC's broadcast monopoly.

Here’s what’s inside today’s issue:

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Hertfordshire County Council is celebrating a major breakthrough in nature conservation at Broxbourne Woods, the county's only National Nature Reserve. This 239-hectare woodland sanctuary, comprising four distinct woods (Bencroft, Broxbourne, Hoddesdonpark, and Wormley), holds the prestigious status of both a Special Area of Conservation and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The ancient sessile oak and hornbeam woodland represents a critical habitat at the northern edge of its natural range, making conservation efforts particularly vital for preserving this unique ecosystem for future generations.

More Info: https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/about-the-council/news/news-archive/protecting-nature-at-broxbourne-woods-national-nature-reserve

Hitchin turned into a high-octane carnival as crowds lined the streets for the first-ever Soapbox Derby and it did not disappoint. From DIY racers to camera-ready crowds, the event was packed with energy, laughter, and a viral moment no one expected.

The moment of the day? A team hit a bump and spectacularly flipped their cart, launching a lone shoe skyward instantly becoming the “Cinderella moment” of the day. Fortunately, no injuries, just cheers (and memes).

🏆 Winners:

A big shoutout to @velarisuk for the Creative Cup and all the teams who brought colour, chaos, and comedy to Hitchin.

In a groundbreaking move, Hertfordshire held its first-ever SEND Summit on September 15, 2025, bringing together over 100 education officials, healthcare professionals, teachers, parents, and community groups. The historic event was live-streamed with BSL interpretation to maximize accessibility, allowing hundreds more to participate remotely. This collaborative summit aims to design the next phase of improvements to Special Educational Needs and Disabilities services across the county, marking a new chapter in inclusive education planning that puts the voices of families and professionals at the heart of decision-making.

More Info: https://www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/about-the-council/news/news-archive/hundreds-join-send-summit

East Hertfordshire Council has successfully defended a major housing development after a High Court judge rejected a legal challenge to the Gilston Garden Town project. The ruling clears the way for 2,300 desperately needed new homes for first-time buyers, alongside vital infrastructure including healthcare facilities, jobs, and community amenities. Councillor Vicky Glover-Ward hailed the decision as ending delays that prevented "much-needed new housing" delivery, with the development expected to inject over £1.3 billion into the regional economy and benefit both existing and future communities for generations to come.

More Info: https://www.eastherts.gov.uk/latest-news/2025/east-herts-council-statement-re-gilston-legal-challenge-ruling

Watford Borough Council has secured a £12,000 grant to tackle the persistent problem of chewing gum littering on Queens Road, building on last year's successful campaign on St Albans Road. The funding, from the national Chewing Gum Task Force backed by major manufacturers like Mars Wrigley, is part of a £10 million, five-year initiative that has already achieved up to 80% reductions in gum littering in participating areas. With UK councils spending £7 million annually cleaning gum from streets, this targeted approach combines intensive cleaning with behavioral change campaigns to create lasting improvements in Watford's streetscape.

More Info: https://www.watford.gov.uk/news/article/827/funding-awarded-to-tackle-the-sticky-issue-of-chewing-gum-on-queens-road

Watford Borough Council is expanding its innovative People's Panel, opening applications for residents to directly influence council priorities and decision-making. Mayor Peter Taylor emphasized that no special qualifications are needed – just a desire to contribute to the community. The initiative actively seeks diverse participants across all ages and backgrounds to reflect the town's demographics, with selected members committing to year-round meetings and activities. The application deadline is September 22, 2025, at 5pm, offering Watford residents an unprecedented opportunity to have their voices heard at the heart of local governance.

More Info: https://www.watford.gov.uk/news/article/825/council-expands-people-s-panel-to-strengthen-and-reflect-voice-of-residents

Watford's business community holds the keys to over £3 million in town center investment as the ballot period opens for a third Business Improvement District (BID) term from 2026-2031. Running until October 9, 2025, eligible businesses can vote to continue the BID's mission of enhancing the town center experience, promoting local commerce, and supporting business growth. Since 2016, the BID has transformed Watford's commercial landscape through collaborative projects, and the new five-year plan promises continued innovation in sustainability, marketing, and business support services that have made the town center a thriving destination.

More Info: https://www.watford.gov.uk/news/article/823/ballot-period-opens-for-a-third-watford-town-centre-bid-term-from-2026-to-2031

Watford residents can lace up their walking shoes for a good cause at the Chairman's Charity Walk on October 11, 2025, sponsored by Murrill Construction. The community event runs from 10:30am-12:30pm through beautiful Cassiobury Park, with all proceeds supporting three vital local organizations: Eternity Community CIC (supporting families), One Vision's Macmillan Cancer Champions Project, and Watford African Caribbean Association's Thrive Youth Project. At just £5 entry (or £15 with a commemorative t-shirt), participants can enjoy gentle exercise, fresh air, and the satisfaction of making a direct difference to local lives while connecting with neighbors in one of Watford's most scenic locations.

More Info: https://www.watford.gov.uk/news/article/822/step-up-for-local-causes-at-the-chairman-s-charity-walk

Dacorum's Community Safety Partnership mounted an intensive enforcement operation on September 8 and 10, 2025, targeting anti-social behavior, licensing violations, and environmental crimes in Hemel Hempstead's town centers. The multi-agency crackdown involving Dacorum Borough Council, police, fire services, and the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority yielded dramatic results: emergency prohibition notices for dangerous unregistered houses, three tonnes of rubbish cleared, and one employer facing up to £80,000 in fines for employing illegal workers. The operation also investigated underage alcohol sales and provided fire safety advice, demonstrating how coordinated enforcement can rapidly improve community standards and safety.

More Info: https://www.dacorum.gov.uk/home/all-news/2025/09/17/dacorum-community-safety-partnership-carries-out-two-day-enforcement-operation-in-hemel-hempstead

Stevenage Borough Council has launched the 2025 Community Chest Fund, offering local community groups and volunteers a golden opportunity to secure financial backing for projects that enhance local life. The fund, managed through the innovative Stevenage Works partnership between North Hertfordshire College, Job Centre Plus, and the council, has already received generous donations from contractors including Ashe, Magrock, Sureserve, TSG, Jewson, Hill (Imex), and Keepmoat. Previous recipients like Bedwell Rangers, Diamond Silver Service, and Tracks Autism have already made lasting impacts across the town. With applications open until October 20, 2025, this is the perfect chance for community organizations to transform their vision into reality and create positive change for generations to come.

More Info: https://www.stevenage.gov.uk/news-and-events/news/bidding-open-for-2025-stevenage-works-community-chest-fund

St Albans' ambitious Local Plan moves into its crucial second phase with public hearings scheduled for October and November 2025, marking a pivotal moment in the district's 16-year growth strategy. Independent Planning Inspectors Matthew Birkinshaw and Thomas Bristow will examine the blueprint for 15,000 new homes (including 1,200 social rent properties) and £750 million worth of infrastructure including eight primary schools, four secondary schools, and enhanced public transport. The hearings at St Albans Civic Centre will address contentious issues including Green Belt boundaries, housing distribution, and the strategic Hemel Garden Communities development. If successful, the plan could be adopted by spring 2026, finally providing the district with the comprehensive development framework it has worked toward for over three years.

More Info: https://www.stalbans.gov.uk/news/local-plan-inspectors-provide-dates-second-set-hearings

Calling all artists! Hertford’s Riverside Bench Art Trail is looking for creative talent to turn riverside benches into works of art.

✅ You get paid
✅ Materials provided
✅ Your name on a plaque
✅ Featured in the Art Trail Guide

No set style – bring your abstract, nature, heritage, or illustrative magic to life. First 6 benches go live before Christmas, just in time to brighten winter walks.

📅 Deadline to apply: 25 September
📩 Email: [email protected] with your name, concept, and portfolio

Let’s turn Hertford’s riverside into an open-air gallery.

Hertfordshire’s local government could soon look very different — and your voice matters.

A public consultation is underway to explore three new models for local government reorganisation:

These changes could affect everything from council tax to how schools, waste collection, and social care are managed.

📝 Deadline to take the survey: 30 September
👉 Take the Survey Now

📍 Upcoming events to attend:

🔗 Full details and meeting links here

This is your borough. Don’t let someone else make the decision for you.

Organised by Fairlands Valley Spartans, the Stevenage Half Marathon is back on Sunday 19th October, featuring a two-lap course through the town's iconic cycleways. The race also hosts the Hertfordshire County Senior Championships. Open to runners aged 17+, with entry just £30 (discount for affiliated club members).

📍 Start/Finish: Hampson Park Community Centre
🎗️ Charity Partner: Willow Foundation
🏃‍♂️ Enter now: stevenagehalfmarathon.org.uk

Andrew Fenwick and Eloise Hind were first male and female finishers at the club’s final evening Handicap 5K. A fun-filled event saw surprise performances, new personal bests, and even a viral moment involving a stray shoe mid-race!

Fastest runners:

Next up: Handicap 5 or 10-mile options on Sunday 9th November.

34 Spartans kicked off the XC season with a strong showing in the Lucy Warren Open Space.
Top finishers:

Next XC race: Sunday 2nd November at Trent Park

Yuko Gordon stunned spectators in Berlin, winning the 70+ women’s category in 3:52:28. Out of 50,000 runners, she placed an incredible 14,353rd overall. A legend!

Tim Robinson conquered the uneven, cow-laden Ouse Valley Way Marathon in 6:45:43, proving grit beats comfort every time.

Three Spartans took on the Letchworth 5K:

Sharon Crowley hit her 100th parkrun and 50th volunteer shift on the same day at Stevenage parkrun. Celebrations included capes and smiles all around.

Notable runs:

Spartans also travelled far and wide, from Rutland Water to Westmill, Flegg High to Hastings, showing the club’s true reach.

Monday

15°C 🌡️ 4°C | ☀ Sunny intervals and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:47 Sunset 19:07

Tuesday

15°C 🌡️ 7°C | ☀ Sunny intervals and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:48 Sunset 18:58

Wednesday

17°C 🌡️ 6°C | ☀ Sunny and a gentle breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:50 Sunset 18:56

Thursday

17°C 🌡️ 6°C | ☀ Sunny intervals and a moderate breeze | ☀️ Sunrise 06:52 Sunset 18:54

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Cheers,
Editor-in-chief | Emeka Ogbonnaya

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